GANGTOK,: Chief Minister PS Golay on Saturday attended the 72nd plenary meeting
of the North Eastern Council (NEC) chaired by Union Home minister Amit Shah in
Agartala.
During the
meeting, the Chief Minister highlighted several critical issues concerning
Sikkim, while emphasizing the importance of a collective vision for a
sustainable and prosperous future for the North Eastern region.
Expressing
his gratitude for the Union Budget 2024-25, Golay reiterated the urgent need
for united efforts to achieve the vision of Viksit Bharat-2047. Recognizing the
vital role of tourism and the MSME sectors as the lifeblood of our economy, I
appealed to the Central government to extend robust support in upgrading
tourism infrastructure, facilitating development, and ensuring proper
maintenance, he said.
As shared
on his social media platforms, the Chief Minister proposed the initiation of a
pilot project under the aegis of NEC and the Central Government to enhance
tourism and entrepreneurship in the region. Further, he underscored the immense
potential of ecotourism, highlighting a few successful projects executed in
Sikkim.
Similarly,
one of the key issues the Chief Minister raised was the reopening of the
Kailash Mansarovar Yatra through Sikkim. He also reiterated the necessity of
establishing an Integrated Check Post and a Multimodal Corridor at West
Sikkim’s Chiwa Bhanjyang on the Nepal border, which would significantly bolster
regional connectivity and trade.
He extended
his appreciation to the Central Government for the UNNATI Scheme 2024, aimed at
empowering our youth through employment generation projects.
“Moreover,
I brought to the forefront the disruptions caused along NH10 due to the Teesta
floods and river silting in low lying areas, urging for immediate redressal. I
also emphasized the importance of expediting the completion of the railway project
to strengthen connectivity,” shared the Chief Minister.
Regarding
Pakyong Airport, Golay stressed the need for all-weather connectivity and
called for structural remedies to ensure continuous services. I also informed
the house about Sikkim’s upcoming Golden Jubilee Year of Statehood, which will
be celebrated on 16th May 2025, marking 50 years since attaining Statehood, he
said.
The Chief
Minister extended his heartiest thanks to Union Home minister Amit Shah,
Governors, Chief Ministers, DoNER minister, MoS, officials of NEC, and both
Central and State Government representatives for their insights and
collaboration.
